NIGHTLIFE IN GHANA

“Back in the US, we usually have to make our own fun. Here in Ghana, usually the fun just ends up happening.”

This quote is an accurate depiction of what nightlife is like here in Ghana. Possibly because everything is so new, yes, but also because there is a more relaxed air here then you will ever find in America. Thursday night we just went to bar and watched a soccer game. Except watching a soccer game with Ghanaians is quite possibly the funniest and most entertaining thing ever. Also, people were drinking which helped them be more rowdy. Oh also, keep in mind this happened right after me and Kim took a cab to the approximate spot where the bar was located (trinity junction) (everyone else went before us) which ended up being a super busy intersection. Haha we were SO lost. But Maggie and Micki helped us out.

But yeah,  I ended up sitting next to a man who wrapped his arm around me and clearly knew nothing about personal space. I thought it was hysterical. Sometimes he forgot I was there and would say, “Oh! So sorry!” The game was between Madrid and Barcelona. Ghanaians, screaming, yelling, engaging in verbal jousts, there was no time when everyone was sitting, cool and collected. It was amazing to be part of such a crazed environment. The bartender attempted to keep up with his drink orders the entire night.

Friday night began the epic club night…we only went to one club, but it was pretty epic. Of course, it was Kim, Maggie, and I. We wanted others to come, but they took to long…and well, anyone who knows Kim knows that when she wants to go somewhere, you go. So we grabbed a cab and went to downtown Osu. Osu is apparently one of the most populated night life areas around. The drive was about fifteen minutes or so ,and on our way we passed a few prostitutes (yikes!) as well as  a KFC. I have also heard a rumor of an espresso bar in Osu which I will have to visit sometime VERY soon. Our destination was a club named Tantra. Down a random street, it was gated off and glowed in orange and red lights. The bouncer charged us 20 cedis at first, but then we got him to knock it down to about 16 a person. I guess being a girl helps ;). We walked in, and I was instantly amazed. Keep in m mind, this was my first real club experience. There was a huge TV screen playing music videos, a full wall bar, and a nice dance floor as well as a few sitting areas with nice chairs and couches. Upstairs was another bar and more seating. Then there was a patio we could also use to get some air. First of all, people are allowed to smoke inside the club, So, that was an experience. But then again, I feel like coming home smelling like cigarettes is kind of a requirement when coming home from a club. That, and being a sweaty, hot mess. Haha.

At first, we contented ourselves by dancing all around the dance floor. As the place began to fill up, we ended up procuring drinks for free. (Such a perk- a love being a girl here sometimes). Like, people would be passing around tequila shots and just offer them to you (ignore this part parents!). The men here can be grabby though. They just start dancing up behind you and then you smile and walk away. Or they would engage you in some sort of dance competition and watch what moves you can bring to the table. We were all surprised to see Christina (one of our CIEE reps) at the club. That was a funny moment! Haha Also, there were a lot of oboruni in the club. Next time we are hoping to find a club that is more congregated with locals. Maggie was stolen by a random Russian guy who preceded to hit on all of us, but loved Maggie’s hair. Haha We kept rotating between going upstairs and downstairs to avoid the various men that began to pursue us. Some actually were bold enough to steal us from other men (weird and territorial). My favorite was when one guy asked Maggie if she had a boyfriend and she said yeah. He preceded to walk away. Haha. It was quite the event…we actually ended up staying there till four am. A bouncer ended up getting us a reliable taxi to take us home. This week we are looking forward to going to Afrodisiac. Apparently it’s ladies night every Thursday and girl’s get in for freeeee. But, we aren’t allowed to wear flip flops…weird. Looking forward to that!